Thursday, 1 June 2017

RECIPE: Protein Energy Squares

So it gets to mid-afternoon and you're thinking I could do with a snack. Probably something a bit sweet to give you a lift in the afternoon. What do you reach for? Chocolate? Yeh, most people reach for that to be honest. We all know though it's not the best option for us though right. Why not reach for something that's a little better for you, still tastes sweet and chewy but actually gives you a good 'kick' without being filled with some of the junk that you can find in a choccie bar! Tah Dah! These are for you.

I love these little energy squares mid afternoon or even before training. I've even been known to scoff a few at breakfast time when I'm in a rush and even the thought of a smoothie is too time consuming!

Once made, store them in the fridge. They should last around 2-3 weeks (but hopefully they will all be eaten by then anyways!). You can take them to work with you too, maybe even share them out with your co-workers in the afternoon - if you're feeling generous that is! ;)

Ingredients:

1 cup of medjool dates (they have to be these type, otherwise the mixture won't hold together well enough. Check out Costco for the best price for a big box)

1/2 cup almonds

1/4 cup cashew nuts

2 tbsp chia seeds

1 tbsp coconut oil

1 tbsp nut butter (none processed & sugar free)

1/2 tbsp raw cacao

1/2 tbsp organic & vegan chocolate protein powder

1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Method:

Begin by lining a baking tray with greeseproof paper. Make sure you leave some paper coming up the sides so you can pick it up afterwards

In a food processor, blitz the nuts until they have broken down to crumbs (not a powder though)

Add the dates to the nut mix and blitz again until only just combined

Then add the rest of the ingredients and process until the mixture begins to come together

Turn this mixture out and press into the baking tray with your hands. If you find it is sticking to your hands, then just apply a little bit of coconut oil to your palms first and then the mix won't stick.

Pop it in the freezer for a couple of hours until no longer soft

Finally, bring it out and cut the mix into small squares. Put them in an airtight container with sheets of grease proof paper between each layer.

Keep them in the fridge and try and eat them within a couple of weeks or so - that's if you've not eaten them all by then!